Renowned cinematographer, Farhan Alam, has donned the director’s cap for his latest venture Saawan. Based on the true story of a disabled child, the film carries the message of humanity and hope.

Saawan stars Imran Aslam, Saleem Miraj, Tipu, Sehrish Qadri, and Syed Karam Hussain in the lead roles. The script and the screenplay has been written by Mashood Qadri - the grand-son of reputed writer Moulana Hamid Badayuni.

It has been produced by Asma Qadri. The editing will be done by renowned Bollywood editor Aseem Sinah. He has done editing for projects like Well done Abba, Zubeida, Khoobsurat, Welcome to Sajjanpur, and Sardari Begum.

The film's director has been associated with Pakistan's entertainment industry for more than 15 years. As a cinematographer, he has worked on several well-known projects including Dastaan, Malaal, Mera Naseeb, Sanjah, and Coke Kahani.

HIP recently spoke to the writer, and also one of the producer's, Mashood Qadri, who gave us a sneak peak into his new venture.

A photo posted by HIPinPakistan (@hipinpk) on Dec 24, 2015 at 7:07am PST

When and how did the idea to make a film come in your mind?

Although I was associated with the showbiz for quite some time, but it was the story of this film which forced me to jump into the thick of things, that is the production.

The story is based on a true tale of a disabled child, who was left alone in one of the deserts in Pakistan.

Could you tell us a bit about the main plot of the film?

Well, the film has drama, suspense, strong unpredictable ending, tragedy, and action; all rolled into one project.

It is about struggle of a disabled child who iss left all alone in the desert. In the initial scenes we have shown him as a shy and frightened child, but later on he overcomes his fears. His biggest strength is his dedicated mother, who always motivates him to be a good human being.

During the struggle, the child comes into contact with a disabled dog, he perceives the dog as counter-transference in order to overcome his own fears.

In this story of a struggling disabled boy you will also meet some interesting characters: an inspiring mother, an enthusiastic passionate TV reporter, a burglar, a child abductor, criminal, ambivalent father, and a cruel landlord. We are sure that this story will keep the audience on the edge of their seats.

What's the central message of the film?

The film carries a message of hope and is a lesson for those who ignore disabled children during their daily walk of life and consider them a liability. It will show them how such kids can be turned into a valuable chunk of society.

Tell us a bit about the film's cast?

We have Syed Karam Hussein playing the protagonist. He is the younger brother of Syed Fazal Hussein (child actor of Ramchand Pakistani). Karam has amazing talent and he has performed way above our expectations. I must say, he has inherited all talented genes in sound manner.

Najiba Faiz plays an inspirational mother, whereas Arif Bahalimm plays an ambivalent father in the film. We also have Saleem Miraj, Shahid Nizam (son of Khalid Nizami), Imran Aslam, Tipu Yorguc, and Sehrish Qadri in important roles.

A photo posted by HIPinPakistan (@hipinpk) on Dec 24, 2015 at 7:08am PST

The film's story also required a trained dog. So we got a fully trained dog from the USA.

Is this your first venture as a director, or have you done any work in the past too?

Actually this isn't my first shot at direction. I've dipped my toes in this field before by directing a couple of short films and music videos. This is the first time that I'm directing on such a large scale.

As a director of photography, I have worked very closely with the film directors. I have worked on numerous projects including the feature film Bin Roye and drama serials such as Dastaan, Malaal, Mera Naseeb, Sanjah, and Coke Kahani.

My love of photography and motion picture began at a young age as I meticulously observed my father Shah Alam —a legendary cinematographer and one of the pioneers of television and film in Pakistan — being at work.

My passion for the celluloid led me to pursue my diploma in Film and TV Production at the Los Angeles City College, USA. Later, I began my career by working as an assistant cameraman for Gaffer and Grip.

Earlier, I made a short film Calendar that was well received as an official selection at the New York Film Expo 2010.

What do you think

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Leena Qadri Jan 01, 2016 12:26am

Having witnessed the shooting on location in Skardu, I can say with great confidence and appreciation how hard everyone worked on this project. Looking forward to the film release, wish all the best and please everyone go see this movie.
Good luck to all the team members.

RustyJan 02, 2016 01:06pm

Great

Mohammad AlamJan 03, 2016 12:17pm

Very good team! I have been in the business for long. One and only Mashood Qadri is a very good writer, thought provoking writer. Lots of hopes from the moviie.
Mohammad Alam

HiraJan 05, 2016 06:25am

I absolutely cannot wait to watch this movie. I believe this film carries a very powerful message to those who are told they are worthless and are made to feel like a burden just for existing. InshaAllah I hope the message in this movie reaches many people and helps open their hearts, ameen.

MehreenJan 05, 2016 09:44am

This movie reflects a very important issue. Its message is a necessary one that is making us all aware of the problems that innocent children in our society are facing today. I really look forward to watching it.

Mellissa Jan 20, 2016 04:39am

Wishing best of luck to the crew. Chandler Hospital Community has been excited to watch Dr. Mashood Quadri's another talent :) He is the best Physician and surely a great man with lot of talents.
ICU Team
Chandler Regional Medical Center